I dread these days
where the weather changes
and my new found family
falls away.
Each year it begins the same
colors changing, the air cooling
I cringe inside hoping to
hold on to each member.
Ultimately I am left alone.

Bare, naked, exposed
to the brutality of the
cold winds flowing
every which way as
thick white fluff surrounds
my base, lengthening
my chill for weeks.
Every now and then
I am filled with hope
as the sun rises.

Beams of light are everywhere
warming me to the core
as the icicles melt away.
Continuous showers provide
nutrients so accessible
that eating feels easier than breathing.
I am strong and passing
life on to my new family.

Small buds are now
open in full bloom
creating safe havens
for friends whose songs
tell tales to be passed on.
Each day someone new
comes by to rest in my shadow,
eat from my leaves, or live
among my new family.